Judo is many things to different people. It is a sport, an art, a discipline, a recreational or social activity, a keep fit program, a means of self defense, and a way of life. It is to some extent all of these, but to most participants, it is a sport.

Judo comes to us from the fighting system of feudal Japan. Founded in 1882 by Dr. Jigoro Kano, Judo is a refinement of the ancient martial art of Jujitsu. Dr. Kano, President of the University of Education, Tokyo, made a comprehensive study of those ancient art forms and integrated those techniques into what is now the modern sport of Judo.Judo was introduced into the Olympic Games in 1964 and is now played by millions of people throughout the world. People play Judo to excel in competition, to stay in shape, to develop self confidence and for many other reasons. But most of all, people play judo just for the fun of it. Judo is a sport that’s a lot of fun!

As in all sports, Judo has a strict set of rules that governs competitive play and ensures safety. For those who desire to test their skill, Judo offers the opportunity of competition at all skill levels, from club to national tournament’s, to international events, to the Olympic Games. There are separate weight divisions for men and women, and boys and girls.Judo can best be described as a special form of wrestling that emphasizes throws as well as pins. In fact, Judo is best known for its spectacular throwing techniques. The players wear special cloths to help with the application of throws and other skills. The same cloths enhances control for maximum safety in practice and competitive play. Judo is played on special mats for added comfort and safety.

Unlike most other martial arts, there is no kicking and punching in Judo. You do not have to wear protective gear or boxing gloves to play judo. Judo emphasizes sport, fun, safety, and and full physical activity for top conditioning.If you like sports and physical activity, you will probably like the sport of judo. Judo is a year round inexpensive activity, that appeals to people from all walks of life. Judo provides the means for learning and improving oneself, physically, mentally, socially and spiritually.